## What are the Effects of Temperatures When Scuba Diving?
When scuba diving, it is important to be aware of the effects of temperature on your body. Water conducts heat 25 times faster than air, so even a small change in water temperature can have a significant impact on your body.
### Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. This can happen in water temperatures as warm as 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius). Symptoms of hypothermia include:
Shivering
Cold skin
Numbness
Confusion
Loss of consciousness
If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the water immediately and seek medical attention.
### Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia occurs when your body temperature rises to dangerous levels. This can happen in water temperatures as high as 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). Symptoms of hyperthermia include:
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the water immediately and cool down. You can do this by:
Drinking plenty of fluids
Taking a cold shower
Applying cold packs to your body
### Other Effects of Temperature
In addition to hypothermia and hyperthermia, there are a number of other ways that temperature can affect your body when scuba diving. These include:
Impaired mental function. Cold water can impair your mental function, making it difficult to think clearly and make decisions.
Reduced muscle strength. Cold water can reduce your muscle strength, making it difficult to swim or use your equipment.
Increased risk of decompression sickness. Cold water can increase your risk of decompression sickness, a serious condition that can occur when you ascend from a dive too quickly.
### How to Stay Safe When Scuba Diving in Different Water Temperatures
The best way to stay safe when scuba diving in different water temperatures is to be prepared. Here are a few tips:
Wear the right wetsuit or drysuit. A wetsuit or drysuit will help to insulate your body and keep you warm.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your dive.
Take breaks. If you start to feel cold or hot, take a break and get out of the water.
Be aware of your symptoms. Know the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and hyperthermia. If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the water immediately and seek medical attention.
### Conclusion
Temperature is an important factor to consider when scuba diving. By being aware of the effects of temperature on your body, you can take steps to stay safe and enjoy your dive.
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